Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to bring a touch of sweetness to your breakfast or brunch table, then Cinnamon Focaccia is just the recipe for you! Imagine biting into a warm, soft slice of dough that’s infused with buttery cinnamon goodness. It’s like having a cinnamon roll without all the fuss! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family gatherings, or even when you want to treat yourself to something special.

What makes this Cinnamon Focaccia truly special is its simplicity. With just a bit of planning, you can have an impressive loaf ready to enjoy. The combination of crispy edges and fluffy centers makes it an absolute favorite in our household—and I know it will be in yours too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: No complicated steps here! You can whip up this dough quickly and let it work its magic overnight.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the sweet aroma of cinnamon baking in the oven. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough the night before, and bake it fresh in the morning for that bakery-style experience at home.
• Delicious flavor: The brown butter and cinnamon create an irresistible topping that seeps into every dimple of the focaccia.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even as dessert drizzled with icing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Focaccia is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful treat!

For the Dough

• 2 cups warm water (heated to about 110℉)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp white granulated sugar
• 4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter (see notes below)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon

For the Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Cinnamon Focaccia is versatile, allowing you to personalize it based on your taste preferences.

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added crunch.
• Mix in fruit: Fold in some raisins or chopped apples into the dough before baking for a fruity twist.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for an exciting flavor blend.
• Make it chocolatey: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm water and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkling active dry yeast over this mixture helps wake up those little yeast cells. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it’s foamy. This step is crucial as it ensures your dough will rise beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Then pour in your foamy yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything until it forms a sticky dough ball. Lightly rubbing olive oil on top prevents sticking and keeps your dough moist while it rises.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This slow rise enhances flavor and texture—a little patience goes a long way!

Step 4: Second Rise

When you’re ready to bake, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour melted butter into the center of the pan. Deflate your risen dough gently by folding it toward the center several times before placing it in your prepared pan. Cover again and let it rise in a warm spot for 1½ – 2 hours until puffy.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter while stirring continuously until it turns golden-amber with a nutty aroma—this process adds depth of flavor to your topping! Cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Topping

Combine brown sugar and cinnamon into your browned butter mix until fully dissolved. This sweet concoction will be drizzled over your focaccia later.

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉. Once your dough has risen again, use wet fingertips to press deep dimples across its surface—this allows that delicious cinnamon-butter mixture to soak through every bite.

Step 8: Bake

Slide your focaccia into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be heavenly! Afterward, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack.

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

For that final touch of sweetness, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this icing generously over warm focaccia slices before serving—enjoy every bite of this wonderful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Focaccia is easier than you might think, and these tips will help ensure your baking experience is a delightful one!

• Use warm water: Starting with warm water (around 110℉) activates the yeast properly, ensuring your dough rises beautifully and becomes airy.

• Don’t skip the overnight rise: Letting your dough rest in the refrigerator overnight develops depth of flavor and enhances the texture, making each bite irresistible.

• Dimple generously: Pressing deep dimples into the dough before baking allows the cinnamon-butter mixture to pool beautifully, resulting in that lovely caramelization we all crave.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different, so start checking your focaccia a couple of minutes before the recommended time. You want it golden brown but not overbaked.

• Serve warm: For the best experience, serve your Cinnamon Focaccia warm or at room temperature. This keeps it soft and allows the icing to melt perfectly into every square.

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Cinnamon Focaccia is not just a treat; it’s an experience! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, there are many ways to present this delicious dish that will wow your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of your drizzled icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: Add fresh berries or banana slices as a side garnish for a pop of color and freshness that balances the sweetness.
• Whipped coconut cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream can add a creamy texture that complements the warm focaccia beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of Cinnamon Focaccia.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a balanced breakfast or brunch option that pairs wonderfully with your focaccia.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea not only complements this dish but also enhances its comforting qualities.
• Coffee or chai latte: These beverages bring out the warmth of cinnamon while providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of your focaccia.

Enjoy making this scrumptious Cinnamon Focaccia—a recipe sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Focaccia recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, saving time on busy mornings or when hosting brunch. Here’s how to store it, freeze it, and reheat it for the best results.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature.
• It’s best enjoyed within 2 days, but you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
• To keep it fresh longer, consider wrapping individual pieces in plastic wrap.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350℉ for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• You can also microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up, but this may affect texture.

FAQs

Have questions? No worries—here are some common ones about making Cinnamon Focaccia!

Can I make Cinnamon Focaccia without brown butter?

Yes! If you prefer not to use brown butter, simply melt regular unsalted butter instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

How does Cinnamon Focaccia compare to traditional cinnamon rolls?

Cinnamon Focaccia is easier and quicker than traditional cinnamon rolls since it requires less shaping and rolling. Plus, its airy texture makes it a delightful twist on the classic!

Can I add toppings to my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips before baking. They’ll elevate your focaccia even further!

How long does Cinnamon Focaccia last?

When stored properly at room temperature, your Cinnamon Focaccia will stay fresh for about 2 days. If refrigerated, it can last up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia as much as I do! Its soft and airy texture combined with that sweet cinnamon flavor makes it a special treat for any occasion. Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up those sleeves and dive into this recipe—you won’t regret it!